2005 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2002 Renault Espace
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Renault Espace. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Renault Espace would be higher. At 2,958 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Renault Espace is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2002 Renault Espace. (177 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2002 Renault Espace. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Renault Espace weights approximately 460 kg more than 2005 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2005 Mazda RX-8 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2005 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Renault Espace, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2002 Renault Espace (350 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda RX-8. (222 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2002 Renault Espace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda RX-8 | 2002 Renault Espace | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | RX-8 | Espace |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1311 cc | 2958 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2810 mm |
